Reign of Christ — A King Who Gives Hope

A King Who Gives Hope

A short reflection on Jeremiah 23:1-6 and Luke 23:33-43

On Christ the King Sunday, we expect glory. But Luke’s Gospel gives us a very different image: Jesus on a cross, arms outstretched, surrounded by mockery and pain. It feels upside-down. And yet, this is exactly where Jesus shows the heart of his kingship – not in domination, but in mercy.

Beside him hang two criminals. One joins the crowd’s jeers. The other sees something different – a glimpse of a kingdom not built on fear or control, but on love that reaches even the condemned. “Jesus, remember me,” he says. And Jesus answers with astonishing grace: “Today you will be with me in paradise.”

Jeremiah, too, speaks of failed leaders and a coming ruler who will shepherd the people with justice. This king – “The Lord is our righteousness” – won’t scatter the flock but gather it. The early church saw this promise fulfilled in Jesus: the one who leads not with force, but with forgiveness.

Christ’s kingdom still invites us today – not into comfort, but into courage. Not into triumphalism, but into service. His crown is made of thorns, his throne, a cross. And yet, through that suffering, we find hope.

Grace often comes in unexpected places – even at the edge of death, even on a cross.

True leadership is rooted in justice, compassion, and the courage to stand with the vulnerable.

Ngā mihi
Philip

p.s. Worship leaders: You can buy a complete Order of Service and Sermon based on these readings here: https://philipgarsidebooks.com/products/worship-at-hand-reign-of-christ-23-november-2025